Lasers in Dentistry
Dr. Christopher Walinski of ZEN DIEGO® DENTAL ARTS is one of the worldwide leading authorities in the use of dental laser technology and continues to be innovative in the use of this rapidly-advancing technology. Dr. Walinski sits on several laser dental boards around the world and is a frequent contributor to dental literature with interesting case studies and innovative perspective.

Dr. Walinski is often asked why he prefers to use “dental lasers“ instead of traditional instruments like scalpel blades and drills. The simple answer is that our patients prefer laser dentistry. Treatment is quicker, healing takes less time, and most treatments require less anesthetic, making the whole process more comfortable. Dental lasers are very safe and have been approved for use by the FDA for children and adults.

Benefits of Lasers
Some of the major benefits of using a laser instead of a drill are:

1. Heat and vibration are the causes of most of the pain associated with the dental drill. Since lasers reduce heat and vibration, many dental procedures can be performed with less local anesthesia.
2. The laser's pinpoint accuracy is precise enough that we are able to leave behind as much healthy tooth structure as possible, allowing you to keep your own teeth longer (minimally-invasive).
3. Lasers effectively perform numerous soft tissue (gum) procedures with little or no bleeding. The laser gives us a new high-tech tool for many procedures that previously required stitches and healing packs. Now you can have them performed during your regularly scheduled appointment with no bleeding or discomfort.
4. Allow us to avoid many common problems of the high speed drill, including cracks in the teeth from the vibration and rapid turning of the drill burs which has been shown to weaken your teeth, creating future problems. Ever had a tooth break for "no reason?"
5. The laser sterilizes while it is being used, leaving less chance for bacterial contamination. This is especially helpful in root canal therapy, as bacteria is the #1 cause of pain associated with a diseased nerve. Studies show that lasers create the most ideal environment for successful root canal therapy. And, in general, being able to reduce bacterial levels is beneficial in all medical and dental procedures.
6. A dental laser prepares your teeth in a way that maximizes the bonding of tooth colored fillings, allowing them to last longer, with far less post operative sensitivity than traditional methods.
   

Laser Safety
With such a precise active range from the tip, lasers provides pinpoint accuracy, reducing the chance of causing damage to healthy tissues. These instruments are as safe as anything used in dentistry. The only safety measure necessary during laser treatment is proper protective glasses, which we provide for your use.

Finally, what about cost? Laser fillings add nothing to the cost of having fillings done. The savings come in the form of time. Since there is often less need to wait for anesthesia, you'll be ready to go in no time. And, there is no need to wait to eat afterward. Laser fillings can usually be chewed on as soon as you leave our office.

Dental Lasers can be used in the following situations:

• Decay Removal and Cavity Preparation
  
• Desensitize extremely sensitive root surfaces
  
• Detection of cavities not visible on x-rays
  
• Treating gum disease more comfortably and predictably
  
• Improving success of root canal therapy because of better disinfection and surface preparation
  
• Reshape "gummy" smiles
  
• Laser bleaching/whitening
  
• Gum bleaching to remove the dark pigment
  
• General soft tissue procedures
  
• Removing excess tissue, eliminating tongue ties, and improving tissue health and appearance
  
• Soft tissue biopsies